Introducing Learning List Spec Sheets and Explorer Tool
Learning List’s New Spec Sheets and Explorer Tool Help Districts Transition Successfully to a Blended Learning Environment
Learning List
Are Digital Resources or Textbooks More Effective? OECD Weighs In
Are digital resources more effective than textbooks? They are certainly more trendy these days. Although Learning List has reviewed hundreds of instructional materials in both formats, it’s difficult for us to say that one format is better than another.
New Reviews: Learning A-Z’s Reading A-Z
Learning A-Z’s Reading A-Z is a supplemental program that supports reading instruction in grades K-5. Resources are available online and may be downloaded and printed or displayed using classroom projection devices. Instruction focuses on developing proficient readers using texts that match students’ individual reading levels. Learning List has recently completed reviews of Learning A-Z’s materials for grades K-5.
New Reviews: Apex Learning’s Texas World History
Apex Learning’s Texas World History is a year-long, online course in world history for Texas high school students. Resources support instruction in self-paced, remediation, and credit recovery programs. Instruction focuses on building students’ reading, writing, and historical thinking skills. Learning List has recently completed reviews of the materials for high school students.
Models Matter
When selecting materials, one important criterion educators should consider is the instructional model on which the material is based. Resources should mirror and support the model the district uses or else instruction may become disjointed. Over the next few months, Learning List’s blog will discuss the instructional models most frequently implemented in the products we review. Our discussion will seek to highlight the key attributes of each model and clarify where a particular model may or may not be an appropriate structure for content.
New Reviews: Measuring Up to the TEKS Mathematics
People’s Education Measuring Up to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills: Mathematics is a supplemental print resource to help students in grades 3-8 (i.e., Levels C-H) prepare for STAAR testing in math. Content is organized in short lessons that address specific TEKS. Instruction provides ample opportunities for students to practice and apply problem-solving strategies. Learning List recently these materials for grades 3-8.
New Curriculum Review: College Board’s SpringBoard Mathematics
The College Board’s SpringBoard Mathematics is a comprehensive mathematics curriculum for students in grades 6-12 available in print and online formats. Across grade levels, lessons have a consistent structure and focus on developing math literacy through active learning. Learning List has verified the alignment of courses to the Texas, Common Core and Florida standards.
EdNext Poll on Testing
Over the last few months, the national conversation about public education seems to have shifted from a debate over the Common Core State Standards to a debate over state testing. While federal and state policymakers may change the type, number and timing of tests students have to take, testing will remain an indispensable part of our education system. Learning List’s independent alignment reports help educators understand how the instructional materials they use may be affecting their students’ test results.
New Reviews: McGraw-Hill’s SRA FLEX Literacy
McGraw-Hill’s SRA FLEX Literacy is a comprehensive reading and language arts intervention program for grades 3-8. Some content may be appropriate for students in grades K-2. Instruction incorporates print and online materials and is designed for blended learning environments. Learning List has recently completed reviews of the materials for grades K-8.
New Reviews: Common Core Standards Plus Math & Language Arts
Common Core Standards Plus is a supplemental program to support English language arts, reading (ELAR), and mathematics instruction in grades K-8. Resources are in print format and complement core curricula through short daily lessons, application activities, and extended projects. Learning List has completed reviews for Common Core Standards Plus’ math and language arts materials in grades K-8.